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Victorino healthy, returns to Sox's lineup

4/17/13: Shane Victorino reaches base five times, getting hit by a pitch, collecting three hits and reaching on a sacrifice bunt

By Ian Browne
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MLB.com |

ARLINGTON -- For the first time since April 24, Shane Victorino was able to play for the Red Sox.

The right fielder returned to manager John Farrell's lineup for Friday's opener in Texas after dealing with back spasms.

Having Victorino back should be vital to the Red Sox, given his strong start to the season on offense and defense.

"Well, it's good to have Shane back on the field for us," said Farrell. "He's done such a good job not only in the two-hole, but defensively. He gives us some additional speed at the top of the order."

Victorino initially tweaked his back April 20 at Fenway and missed two games before returning for three games and experiencing a setback.

This time, the Sox expect to go full speed ahead with Victorino.

"No, he's full go," said Farrell. "With all the tests that we put him through, there shouldn't be any limitations or restrictions on whether he's able to steal a bag or hit from either side of the plate. He's full go."

Ian Browne is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Brownie Points, and follow him on Twitter @IanMBrowne. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.